A GOSPORT councillor has received the highest honourary council award.

Councillor Peter Edgar has been awarded title of honorary freeman, by Gosport Borough council members.

He is also set to receive an MBE in March for services to education and to the community of Gosport.

When asked about being awarded the title of honourary freeman he said: " I was very surprised and absolutely delighted.

"Gosport is a place that I have always wanted to support and my interest in working with Gosport Borough Council grew overtime.

"Local people over the years have looked to me for support and most people are extremely grateful with the efforts I have made."

Peter was elected to the borough council in 1979, representing Bridgemary.

But for most of his 36 years as member he represented Alverstoke and Anglesey wards.

He served as leader of the Council, and was also Mayor in 1997-1998, with his wife Pat as Mayoress.

He retired from the council in 2018.

Since 2005 he has also been a prominent member of Hampshire County Council,where he represents Leesland and Town.

Peter added:" I'm also just amazed to be receiving an MBE.

"I could not have been successful without the full support that I have received from family."